Intel starts dual-core processor production

Intel today announced they have started production of dual-core processors. In the second quarter of this year the company will ship two separata dual-core products and dual-core-enabled chipsets for its Pentium processor series.

The Intel Pentium Exreme Edition will also include Hyper-Threading Technology, giving the ability to process four software threads simultaneously.

“In addition to our products, we are investing heavily to further prepare the industry for the shift to multi-core computing platforms,” said Robert Crooke, vice president, Desktop Platforms Group and general manager, Desktop Marketing and Strategic Planning, Intel. “We accelerated this effort with the introduction of Hyper-Threading Technology three years ago and we’re extending it by building multi-core processors. Platforms based on Intel multi-core technology will provide the performance and responsiveness consumers and businesses need to get the most enjoyment and productivity from their applications.”

Dual- and multi-core products are designed by including two or more full CPU cores within a single processor enabling the simultaneous managing of activities. When combined with HT Technology, which allows a processor to present itself as two logical processors, the Pentium Processor Extreme Edition product can process four software threads simultaneously by more efficiently using resources that otherwise may sit idle.

The Pentium Processor Extreme Edition will be combined with a new chipset named the Intel 955X Express chipset, formerly codenamed “Glenwood,” that includes features such as Intel High Definition Audio, PCI-Express and faster dual-channel DDR-2 memory. Intel will also couple its mainstream “Smithfield” processor with two new chipsets named the Intel 945G Express chipset and Intel 945P Express chipset, both previously code-named “Lakeport” in the second quarter of the year.